2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 2,477 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero. (83 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 1140 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Because 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero (202 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Ariel | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Atom | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2477 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
